The store was built in the 1880s at the intersection of Poquoson Avenue and Odd Road. It was owned and operated by a local family for years until recently when it was donated to the museum, which is about a mile down Poquoson Avenue.

The city received a $150,000 federal grant through the transportation department, contingent on a 20 percent local match, according to city Finance Director Theresa Owens.

This year's budget totals $163,300. The local funds are provided by the museum, but show up in the city's budget in its special revenue fund since it is the sponsor of the grant.